Gunmen Abduct Anglican Cleric, Wife, Children, Demand N75 Million Ransom

A cleric, Rev. Canon Olowolagba, his wife, and two children were abducted by gunmen along the Ise Akoko/Iboropa Road in Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State. The incident occurred last Sunday while the family was traveling from Ipesi to Ikaram.

According to the Bishop of Akoko Anglican Diocese, Babajide Bada, the family was waylaid by the assailants between Isua and Ise-Akoko and forced into the bush. The victims include Rev. Olowolagba’s wife, their 16-year-old daughter, Goodness, a student at Adekunle Ajasin University, and a nine-year-old girl identified as Idowu. Their absence was discovered the following morning when church members realized they never reached their destination.

The abductors have demanded a ransom of N75 million for the family’s release. In response, the matter has been reported to Amotekun, the Ondo State security outfit. Bishop Bada stated that Amotekun, along with local hunters and police, has begun a search operation to rescue the victims.

Amotekun Corps Commander Adetunji Adeleye confirmed the abduction and assured the public that efforts are underway in collaboration with other security agencies to ensure the safe release of the family. However, Ondo Police Command spokesperson Funmi Odunlami stated that the matter had not yet been officially reported to any police station.

The chairman of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs in Akoko North-West Local Government, Sheikh Basiru Aminu, urged religious leaders and community members to pray for the victims’ safe return.

As of now, no further updates have been provided regarding the status of the victims or the ongoing rescue efforts.